Kenyon said that is not true. He is willing to debate, but wants to do it before the general election — not the Sept. 13 primary.

“A public debate would allow neighborhood groups to question both candidates on their commitment to the neighborhoods,” Woodward said. “ I am concerned about what has been promised for the support of these certain landlords. Will they be allowed to slide again with little or no enforcement?”

Even if Kenyon loses the Republican primary, he still will be on the ballot on the Conservative line and an independent line. He also said Ralph Stacy has filed petitions to run for mayor on an independent line.

“I think it would be more fair to have a debate with all three of us before the general election,” Kenyon said Friday.